Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Manassas, VA: $66,423 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Manassas, VA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $66,423 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Manassas's local price level (BEA RPP 103.2 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $64,363 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($89,438) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, the entry-level ultrasound technologist salary in Manassas, VA, begins at approximately $66,423. For new graduates, this starting figure represents a realistic entry point, though it sits notably lower than the city’s median of $89,438. Typically, early-career professionals can expect to see salary growth over the next few years, moving from the 10th percentile starting pay of $66,423 through to about $76,180 as they gain experience. This upward trajectory suggests that the market in Manassas presents decent opportunities for new ultrasound technologists, with a growth rate of 4.93% annually. Overall, the environment appears supportive for those entering the field, even if starting salaries are some 11.76% below the national median of $101,352.
About the Manassas Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Manassas
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Manassas
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Manassas, VA typically start between $66,423 and $76,180 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $52,502 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $89,438 — 11.76% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Virginia of $28,000 represents just 42.15% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($66,423/year) in Manassas. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on accredited program data and state workforce commission reports. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution type.
Ultrasound Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Manassas
- 1Research the Manassas market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $66,423 to $76,180, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the medical imaging field — employers in VA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Manassas, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Manassas for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Manassas's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Ultrasound Technologist Compensation Range
The ultrasound technologist wage spread in Manassas is $52,502 ( 79.04%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $66,423, experienced hygienists can earn up to $118,925.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$49,255
2025 BLS Actual
$63,302
2026 Current Est.
$66,423
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Manassas (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $49,255 | Actual |
| 2020 | $50,207 | Actual |
| 2021 | $55,667 | Actual |
| 2022 | $57,338 | Actual |
| 2023 | $59,438 | Actual |
| 2024 | $63,033 | Actual |
| 2025 | $63,302 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $66,423 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $69,697 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Manassas, VA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $49,255 in 2019 to $63,302 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $69,697. New graduates entering the Manassas job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Manassas metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 4.93% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your medical imaging Career in Manassas
In Manassas, new graduates looking for their first ultrasound technologist position may find roles through large hospital systems or corporate group practices, which typically have structured onboarding programs designed for those just starting their careers. Obtaining state licensure is essential for practice and can increase starting pay, while additional credentials, such as advanced certifications recognized nationally, can further enhance earning potential. In the first three years, a realistic strategy for growth includes actively seeking diverse experiences and possibly specializing in areas of interest. Even though compensation can vary widely based on employer type and geographic market, a solid first-job foundation often leads to salary growth as experience and credentials accumulate, allowing for meaningful career advancement in this field.
More salary data for Manassas, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Manassas in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Manassas?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Manassas?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Manassas?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Virginia?
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Written by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT
Career Analyst
Ravi has 10 years of experience as an ultrasound technologist. He specializes in abdominal and pelvic imaging. He works in a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new medical imaging graduates. A 4.93% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Manassas. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Manassas is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.93%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for ultrasound technologists (SOC 29-2032).
Compiled and verified by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT, a licensed ultrasound technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov